Sometimes we become obsessed with the cosmetics aisle looking for magical ingredients to give us soft, supple and radiant skin. While many products can boost your appearance and offer you some nourishment, your efforts are in vain if you’re not following the basic rules for great skin.

Rule #1: Keep hydrated! Drink plenty of water to keep your skin glowing and aid it’s natural elasticity. Your skin, lips, nails and hair all need a constant supply of H20 to keep in shape. By the time you start to feel thirsty, you’ve already begun to dehydrate, so be sure to sip on water throughout the day.

Rule #2: Clean is beautiful. Wash your skin with a gentle, non-drying cleanser. The pores of your skin can quickly become clogged by oil, dirt and even sweat. Deep cleansing will remove the dead skin cells and other debris that can lead to blemishes and breakouts. Keeping your hair clean is just as important, because a build up of oils and hair care products can contaminate your skin too.

Rule #3: Get some fresh air and exercise! You can take grandma’s advice on this one, that a little fresh air is good for you. It’s absolutely true. A workout in the gym in great, but remember to take it outdoors, even if it’s only ten minutes. A brisk walk in the fresh air is not only invigorating, it provides exercise and stimulates your blood circulation, leaving you looking rosy and rejuvenated.

Rule #4: Stay away from booze and cigarettes. Using alcohol and cigarettes shows on your face. It’s just that simple. Both of these substances accelerate the aging process, causing wrinkles, clogged pores, dark circles and generally haggard looking complexions.

Rule #5: Get some R & R. Rest and relaxation are a key ingredient in beautiful skin. Stress and sleep deprivation both leave your skin looking dull. Take time to unwind by taking a walk, listening to music or having a soak in a soothing bubble bath. At night, don’t skimp on sleep. Make sure you get at least 8 or 9 hours of sleep each and every night, to give your body time to repair and regenerate skin cells.

The basic rules of skin care haven’t changed in hundreds of years. No matter how many lotions and creams you buy, nothing will improve your skin more than following these simple rules.